If you want to be mistaken for a Florida Keys resident — or at least a savvy regular visitor — don’t ever say “kontch.” The widely-used word “conch” is pronounced “konk" on the island chain that's proudly known as the Conch Republic.
Avid divers have a rare opportunity in the Florida Keys this year — the chance to celebrate two major Key Largo shipwreck anniversaries (including the 15th "sink anniversary" of the world-renowned Spiegel Grove) with unforgettable dives.
Key West is well known for its residents’ welcoming and accepting attitude toward all people -- an attitude that gained formal recognition when local artist JT Thompson conceived the now global “One Human Family” concept.
For those fascinated by the unusual art of conch shell blowing, it’s time to pucker up and hone your “honking” skills on your favorite oceanic instrument — because Key West’s 55th annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest is coming up fast.
Legendary gay playwright Tennessee Williams spent several decades living and writing in Key West — and today, two longtime residents are dedicated to preserving his legacy on the island he loved. Discover the Tennessee Williams Key West Exhibit, and the guiding spirits who brought it to life.
For visitors who wonder how Key Westers live — and what lies behind their houses’ white picket fences, historic facades and gleaming front doors — home tours scheduled for December, January, February and March provide a rare chance to find out.
The Florida Keys History of Diving Museum in Islamorada is a unique 3,000-square-foot showcase of interactive exhibits. It’s also a valuable educational resource through its free “Immerse Yourself!” and “Dive Into History!” public programs — starring maritime and dive experts who help tell the story of people’s attempts to explore, understand and venture under the sea.
The lighthearted I Love Stock Island Festival celebrates the cheerfully rustic island's culture, heritage and working waterfront — with yummy culinary offerings featuring fresh-off-the-boat seafood, wine and beer tastings, history and art studio tours, watersports, live music, and much more.
On a single breath of air, Mehgan Heaney-Grier set a U.S. record for constant-weight freediving in 1996, diving 155 feet deep off the Florida Keys in an amazing display of athleticism and grace.
It’s almost inevitable — sometime this coming fall or winter, your thoughts will turn yearningly toward Key West. Maybe you’ll be drawn by the glitzy outrageousness of Fantasy Fest, or the sudden desire to spend New Year’s Eve watching the “red shoe drop” on Duval Street. Or maybe you'll just want to flee a northern winter.